Which of the following does NOT represent an element of moral panics identified by Cohen?

The element of moral panics that does not align with Cohen's framework is actual data. Cohen's analysis of moral panics describes how society may react to perceived threats or issues, often characterized by a heightened emotional response and panic that does not necessarily correspond to the reality of the situation.

In moral panics, symbolization involves the portrayal of certain groups or behaviors as emblematic of broader social fears, and exaggeration and distortion refer to the amplification of the perceived threat beyond its actual scope through media and public discourse. Prediction relates to how these panics often anticipate future issues based on the current perceived threat, fueling a cycle of fear and reaction.

The concept of actual data is not a core component of moral panics, as the phenomenon often operates independently of factual evidence, relying instead on public perception, sensationalism, and cultural narratives. This disconnect from reliable data illustrates that moral panics thrive on emotion and perception rather than objective analysis.